Six schools in School District U46 attained the highest implementation level of a behavioral supports system used district-wide.
The schools — Century Oaks, Highland and Washington elementary schools in Elgin, Laurel Hill and Ontarioville elementary schools in Hanover Park, and Larkin High School — attained platinum level for their use of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports or PBIS after being reviewed by the Midwest PBIS Network, according to a district news release.
Seventeen schools have earned gold level and another 26 have received bronze or silver status, the release said. All U46 schools have adopted PBIS.
“PBIS helps us create learning environments where all students know what is expected of them. It promotes positive behavior in students and schools, improving social, emotional and academic outcomes for all students,” U46 CEO Tony Sanders said.
The system has been credited by many participating schools with helping reduce the number of in- and out-of-school suspensions.
To earn platinum level, PBIS must be implemented at three levels/tiers, the release said. The first tier requires schools provide core instruction on social and emotional well-being to all students. At the next level, the school must have behavioral and social skill interventions for students who need more support. The third tier requires the school to provide individualized, child-centered plans for some students.
At Century Oaks, tickets are handed out by staff to students when they observe behavior aligning with expectations, such as picking up trash on the floor and walking quietly down the hallways.
“We set the standard for schoolwide expectations,” Principal Andrea Erickson said. “We use common language, what that behavior looks like and sounds like in all areas of the school. We proactively teach those behaviors. When a child doesn’t do well or forgets, we will reteach, review and remind.”
